Detective Inspector Will Whale, leading the investigation, said: "We have had a tremendous response from members of the public, and we'd like to thank them for coming forward and speaking to us, and for sharing our appeals on social media."

The three suspects were arrested in Gillingham, Kent, at around 10.45pm on Monday and taken into custody for questioning.

Held: Billy Midmore was arrested in Gillingham (Image: SWNS)

A spokesman for Hampshire Police said: "We would like to thank the public and media for their assistance during this investigation."

Ms Whitlock has been released from hospital but has been told she may not regain the sight in one eye.